If the organisation that you work for is offering our products, then there should be no charge for accessing them. However if your organisation is not offering them then an alternative centre may assist you with your learning, but may charge a fee.

Please click here to search our interactive map to find an alternative centre in your area. Each centre will show details as to whether they accept learners out of their area and if there will be any charges for you to learn with them.

Learning is only offered through the network of centres. Each centre will offer a range of different ways to access the learning and details of what is offered is available on the interactive map. Many will tailor a programme of learning to support your specific needs.

The ECDL (European Computer Driving Licence) programme provides a route to qualification for learners across a broad range of subjects at Levels 1 and 2. In contrast, the IT Skills Pathway contains individual products. This means that learners only need to complete the modules that are relevant to their current or future role within an organisation. Anecdotal evidence from our current centres suggests that our Level 2 products are at a higher level than those provided by ECDL. They are also mapped directly to the Microsoft Office Specialist suite of qualifications.

If you wish to undertake learning at home, you will a web browser installed on your computer (we recommend Internet Explorer) with the latest version of the Adobe Shockwave Player plugin installed. As all of our products are web-based you will not require the Microsoft Office software to be installed.

A good place to start is to review our detailed list of competencies to determine where you think your skill gaps may lie. Once you have contacted your nearest centre they will work with you to check where you are on the pathway and help to set up a learning plan so you can progress.

Anyone who is associated with a centre. Although the pathway was originally developed for the NHS the skills that can be obtained are generic and therefore apply across all industries. If you work for an organisation that is not part of the NHS then contact your HR or training department so they can come on board!

It depends. The time it will take for you to complete your learning path will be based on your current skill level and what your overall learning objectives are. Your centre will be able to advise you.